On the suitability of cerium oxide glass for terminal radiation sterilization

The affect of ammonium sulphate treatment on cerium oxide (CeO) glass vials have been assessed following exposure to ionizing radiation at 25 kGy. The bulk chemical composition of irradiated cerium oxide glass remains unchanged despite a temporary browning effect. Stability against alkali leachables of the internal silica matrix is enhanced with ammonium sulphate treatment. With exception to Alumina and Na2O, radiation sterilization has a limited effect on altering the surface chemistry of ammonium sulphate treated cerium oxide glass. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved